tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26406525261169284472015-03-30T02:02:28.020-04:00Golf Girl's DiaryThe fun, flirty, fashionable golf blog - We cover golf for women &amp; men... competitive players &amp; casual fans. Golf news &amp; the golf lifestyle. Golf is our passion.Cathleen Farrhttps://plus.google.com/113206641082113649076noreply@blogger.comBlogger1806125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-40915181318758256232015-03-28T01:00:00.000-04:002015-03-29T15:24:24.331-04:00Women in Green Jackets - How to Master an Augusta-Inspired Look<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XSdZRgzopWo/UWOUdQc8E4I/AAAAAAAAQAo/BnicCGmXpGE/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-04-09+at+12.01.59+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XSdZRgzopWo/UWOUdQc8E4I/AAAAAAAAQAo/BnicCGmXpGE/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-04-09+at+12.01.59+AM.png" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Some years ago, golf writer Doug Ferguson posted one of the first photos of </span><a href="http://muckrack.com/dougferguson405/statuses/320998916638248960" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Condoleezza Rice in her green jacket</a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">. The accompanying tweet read, "Condi looking rather dapper in green."</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I don't think there are many women out there... and correct me if I'm wrong... who'd take kindly to being called dapper. To me it's a word you'd use to a describe stylish elderly gentleman, and quite frankly the basic green jacket that corresponds to Augusta National and the Masters <i>is</i> somewhat boxy and quite masculine looking.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">That said, there are many other ways to wear a green jacket, and with a bit of inspiration from<a href="http://pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=green%20blazer" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Pinterest </a>and <a href="http://www.tumblr.com/tagged/green%20blazer" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tumbler</a>&nbsp;it shouldn't be hard to come up with something more stylish. However, if you're heading to Augusta National in your emerald frock, you'll probably want to adhere to the tenants of a&nbsp;<i>not-overly-sexy, not-in-any-way sloppy, golf casual </i>aesthetic. This basic dress code leaves plenty of room for sartorial creativity and will ensure that you avoid unwelcome consternation on the part of more traditional patrons. </span><br /><br /><br />Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-88303893142910653892015-03-26T13:36:00.000-04:002015-03-26T16:27:54.762-04:00A Timely Auction of Masters Memorabilia and Vintage Golf Collectibles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LRju_qOALHI/VROFjx77xoI/AAAAAAAA5H4/J1NGm67H3SM/s1600/Badges%2Bto%2Bbid%2Bon.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LRju_qOALHI/VROFjx77xoI/AAAAAAAA5H4/J1NGm67H3SM/s1600/Badges%2Bto%2Bbid%2Bon.png" height="320" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The month of March is on the wane and Masters week is fast approaching. &nbsp;A select group of golf fans will soon be heading to Augusta, while many others look forward to viewing parties and local Masters events... or maybe just a relaxing weekend on the couch, taking in televised views of lush green fairways and trying out the occasional introspective Jim Nantz impression. <br /><br />The social networks are alive with Masters chatter as final plans are being made, and desperate fans look for a last minute ticket... or two. &nbsp;And with all this anticipation of the imminent April orgy of azaleas and undulating greens, the timing is perfectly optimal for a golf auction.<br /><br />As specialists in the authentication, appraisal and auctioning of golf antiques and collectibles this would clearly be a moment for <a href="http://www.greenjacketauctions.com/site/index.asp" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Green Jacket Auctions</a> to shine, and to that end an auction of amazing golf memorabilia went live there yesterday and will run through April 11.<br /><br />Just a few of the fabulous... and curious... items on the block in <a href="http://www.greenjacketauctions.com/site/auction.asp" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">the current Green Jacket Auction</a> are:&nbsp;an original Augusta National club member's green jacket, rare Masters programs from golf's golden age and a selection of highly collectible, multi-chromatic Masters Badges... the ones that sometimes festoon <a href="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/5165a66decad041906000004-1200/tickets-are-dirt-cheap-only-250-for-a-four-day-pass-but-you-have-to-win-a-lottery-to-buy-them.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">the hats of longtime patrons.</a><br /><br />Several months ago <a href="http://thegolfgirl.blogspot.com/2015/01/deepdale-golf-girl-blonde-in-flouncy.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">I wrote about Green Jacket Auctions</a> in reference to a whimsical tee marker I missed out on. This time I have my eye on something which I will not name (why draw attention/competition to my coveted... item) suffice to say it will be perfect in my garden, and I intend to win it.<br /><br />I'll definitely be keeping up with the bidding from Augusta, where I'll be spending a few days. I've just got to remember not to let any old golf tournaments distract me too much.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>If you're looking for Masters tickets please check with our sponsor, <a href="http://www.ticketcity.com/golf-tickets.html?utm_source=golfgirl&amp;utm_medium=placements&amp;utm_campaign=golfgirl" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ticket City</a>.</b></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-72789859886513342072015-03-17T00:47:00.000-04:002015-03-24T16:40:49.193-04:00In Town & On Course With A Marvelous, Multi-Tasking Little Black Dress <img class="alwaysThinglink" src="//cdn.thinglink.me/api/image/633872929603452928/1024/10/scaletowidth#tl-633872929603452928;1043138249&#39;" style="max-width: 100%;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//cdn.thinglink.me/jse/embed.js"></script> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>The LBD, a staple in the city, can work just as well on the golf course. <a href="http://www.dailylook.com/p/Black-Dresses/Jack-by-BB-Dakota-Barret-Dress/116730.html">This one</a> from <a href="http://www.dailylook.com/c/Little-Black-Dresses/3/4125.html">TheDailyLook</a> is a perfect multi-tasker.</b></span></span><br><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here in New England, we&#39;re finally emerging from what seemed like an interminable winter, and for most of us frost-bitten Yankees, Spring can&#39;t come quickly enough. </span><br><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In fact, I&#39;m guessing there&#39;ll be a record number of northerners taking <i>Spring Breaks</i> over the next several weeks as even the most die-hard snow bunnies seek to enjoy a prelude to the kind of balmy days and blossoming landscapes that won&#39;t grace our region till the end of April. If we&#39;re lucky.</span><br><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For readers of <i>this</i> publication, golf may well be part of the incentive to head south for an <i>avant goût</i> of warmer climes. If it is... and if you&#39;re anything like me... you&#39;re probably pondering over ways you can keep your baggage at a minimum, because who needs the inconvenience... and, these days, the expense... of superfluous luggage. </span><br><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There are numerous variables to consider, particularly concerning golf clubs and whether to bring them, ship them or rent them at your destination. I won&#39;t go into that in this particular post, but will definitely be <strike>obsessing</strike> writing about it as I plan my own upcoming trip; a trip that&#39;ll likely include a couple of evenings out, a day or two at the beach and a few rounds of golf... including a practice round at Augusta National where, needless to say, I myself will be spectating, not practicing (insert ultra-disappointed emoji here). <b><span style="color: #274e13;"><a href="http://thegolfgirl.blogspot.com/2015/03/in-town-on-course-with-marvelous-multi.html#more" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">READ MORE --&gt;</a></span></b></span><br><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: #274e13;"><br></span></b></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br><br><a href="http://thegolfgirl.blogspot.com/2015/03/in-town-on-course-with-marvelous-multi.html#more">READ MORE &gt;&gt;&gt;</a>Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-51126054625027185652015-03-10T00:57:00.000-04:002015-03-10T19:33:25.353-04:00Sleep Awareness Week - Catching Up With LPGA Golfer Nicole Jeray<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JKQIlmdJQLI/VPvVRSsTthI/AAAAAAAA4zI/SkFMzOWnOp0/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2015-03-07%2Bat%2B11.48.58%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JKQIlmdJQLI/VPvVRSsTthI/AAAAAAAA4zI/SkFMzOWnOp0/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2015-03-07%2Bat%2B11.48.58%2BPM.png"></a></div>When it comes to athletic performance... particularly in a sport like golf... an ample amount of good quality sleep is an essential element. Because concentration, coordination, focus and energy are dependent on the regular acquisition of adequate Zs.<br><br>That&#39;s what makes professional golfer, <a href="http://www.nicolejeray.com/about-me/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Nicole Jeray&#39;s story</a> so extraordinary. The naturally athletic Illinois native began playing golf at age 11. She quickly excelled at the sport and it wasn&#39;t long before she was being encouraged to aim for a professional golf career.<br><br><i><span style="color: #274e13;">&quot;I had a lot of success on my way to becoming a professional player on the LPGA in 1994. I won the 1990 Ohio Girls Invitational and was a semifinalist at the 1991-1992 U.S. Women’s Amateur Public Links Championships. I also won eight titles while playing colleg</span></i><i><span style="color: #274e13;">iate golf at Northern Illinois University (NIU) and won the MVP award from 1989-1992. In 1998, NIU inducted me in the University Hall of Fame. I was the youngest person ever to be inducted&quot;</span></i><br><i><br></i>The thing is, as Nicole was enjoying her substantial on-course successes she was also experiencing some disconcerting physical symptoms. Many of them were, sleep-related... things we can all relate to to some extent... daytime sleepiness, interrupted sleep and a kind of chronic exhaustion. At the time, the physicians Nicole saw chalked her complaints up to &quot;being a typical college student; burning the candle at both ends and never getting enough rest&quot;. As time went on however, Nicole&#39;s symptoms became more extreme; she began to experience sleep paralysis and hypnagogic hallucinations. Cataplexy, a temporary muscle paralysis triggered by strong emotions, kicked in as well. It was only after the aspiring professional golfer connected with a sleep specialist and underwent some specialized studies that a definitive diagnosis was reached, a diagnosis that would become a huge part of her life. Nicole had a classic, text-book case of Narcolepsy, the chronic neurological disorder involving loss of the brain&#39;s ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles normally.<span class="s1"> </span><br><br>Last week was <a href="http://sleepfoundation.org/events-activities/sleep-awareness-week" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">National Sleep Awareness Week</a>. On Friday, as we prepared to set our clocks forward for daylight savings time, I had the opportunity to talk to Nicole about Narcolepsy and about how it&#39;s affected her health, her golf career and her outlook on life. Nicole is an inspiring and entertaining speaker and our conversation was fun and revealing. <a href="http://thegolfgirl.blogspot.com/2015/03/sleep-awareness-week-catching-up-with.html#more" target="_blank"><b>Here are some of the highlights: --&gt;</b></a><br><br><br><a href="http://thegolfgirl.blogspot.com/2015/03/sleep-awareness-week-catching-up-with.html#more">READ MORE &gt;&gt;&gt;</a>Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-29723023246860617762015-03-04T10:58:00.000-05:002015-03-04T11:03:40.942-05:00The Masters: An Historic Event, An Iconic Course, A Coveted Ticket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z54N8uzqPZM/VPUhRXoXbwI/AAAAAAAA4p4/QwcKF2UUcLY/s1600/Masters%2BTickets%2BGolf%2BGirl.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z54N8uzqPZM/VPUhRXoXbwI/AAAAAAAA4p4/QwcKF2UUcLY/s1600/Masters%2BTickets%2BGolf%2BGirl.png" height="335" width="400"></a></div><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><span style="color: #444444; font-size: x-small;"><b>This post is in partnership with <a href="http://www.ticketcity.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ticket City.</a></b></span><a href="http://www.ticketcity.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> </a></i></span><br><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Tickets to the Masters are, by their very nature, elusive.</span><br><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Though certainly one of the world&#39;s best known sporting events and most loved golf tournaments, there&#39;s a persistent element of mystery surrounding the Masters. </span><br><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Augusta National, the cloistered course that hosts the tournament each year, is a real life Brigadoon; an enchanted place with a frozen-in-time feeling, that opens itself for just a few fleeting days a year to the outside world. </span><br><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The fact that only a select few manage to gain entry during each annual <i>ouverture, </i>makes a visit to the Masters a wildly sought after experience for both golfers and non-golfers alike. Not surprisingly this collective longing has only deepened the mystery... and enhanced the mythology... surrounding the coveted tickets. How then, does one manage to get in?</span><br><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Since I started writing about golf nearly a decade ago, I&#39;ve been asked that question more times than I can remember, and to be honest it took me a couple of years of sifting through fact and folklore to arrive at an understanding of the process and its possibilities. So here&#39;s the deal. <b><span style="color: #e06666;"><a href="http://thegolfgirl.blogspot.com/2015/03/the-masters-historic-event-iconic.html#more" target="_blank">-------&gt; READ MORE -&gt;</a></span></b></span><br><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br></span><br><a href="http://thegolfgirl.blogspot.com/2015/03/the-masters-historic-event-iconic.html#more">READ MORE &gt;&gt;&gt;</a>Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-14551482586847435182015-02-26T23:13:00.000-05:002015-02-27T12:16:35.037-05:00Golf Logos: Where Marketing & Design Meet Fairways & Greens<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E6Q5rFya80A/VO-uylK6VcI/AAAAAAAA4mE/pYAbgpA4-hE/s1600/golf%2Blogos%2Bgalore*.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E6Q5rFya80A/VO-uylK6VcI/AAAAAAAA4mE/pYAbgpA4-hE/s1600/golf%2Blogos%2Bgalore*.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Just a few of my favorite golf logos &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;via <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/thegolfgirl/golf-logos/" target="_blank">Patricia Hannigan on Pinterest</a></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The silhouette of a golfer with the scales of justice suspended from his iron... a wicker-topped flagstick set against a tuft of Scotch Broom... and a scotty dog decked out in red argyle: These are three of my favorite golf logos. Though, truth be told, I have lots of <i>favorite </i>golf logos.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Some are refreshingly whimsical while others feature more traditional aesthetic. What they have in common however is the ability to convey their golf brand's message in a way that's visually engaging and... memorable.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When writers weigh in on golf's best logos, as they sometimes will, the focus is often on golf courses, with Winged Foot, Pine Valley, Kapalua and the aforementioned Merion garnering frequent praise. However the most popular golf course logo has got to belong to <a href="http://limeshot.com/images/whistling-straits1.png" target="_blank">Whistling Straits</a>. It features a foreboding bearded face seemingly carved in stone. The inspiration is said by some to have been Herbert Kohler Jr, the colorful Kohler Company CEO who engaged Pete Dye to design the challenging Wisconsin course. <a href="http://www.golf.com/photos/worst-and-best-golf-club-logos#42" target="_blank">Golf.com called the Whistling Straits logo <i>badass</i></a>, which is probably an apt description.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Personally, I tend to favor lesser known golf logos, the ones that represent innovative golf brands... startups with distinctive identities; &nbsp;<a href="http://www.blackgirlsgolf.net/" target="_blank">Black Girl's Golf</a>, <a href="http://www.teetotablebydeannaalfredo.com/" target="_blank">Tee to Table</a> and <a href="http://practical-golf.com/" target="_blank">Practical Golf</a> are good examples. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A brand's logo can be a key element in establishing its identity and differentiating itself from competition. They're also a great way for a brand to showcase it's creativity. To see a wide variety of golf logos and find out more about the companies behind them, head over to <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=golf%20logos" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> where you'll find golf logos by the hundreds.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br/><br/>Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.comDanbury, CT, USA41.394817 -73.454011141.204231 -73.7767346 41.585403000000007 -73.131287600000007tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-55680661004007781062015-02-19T16:50:00.000-05:002015-02-23T19:03:43.646-05:00Pebble Beach, Where Golf Memories Are Made... and Shared With the World <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ePia2ZZlDjw/VOu9REZxjmI/AAAAAAAA4jA/hLhy-e4jhqg/s1600/AT%26T%2BNational%2BPebble%2BBeach%2BProAm%2B-%2BTim%2BLang.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ePia2ZZlDjw/VOu9REZxjmI/AAAAAAAA4jA/hLhy-e4jhqg/s1600/AT%26T%2BNational%2BPebble%2BBeach%2BProAm%2B-%2BTim%2BLang.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>AT&amp;T National Pebble Beach ProAm &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; photo: <a href="http://thedanplan.com/" target="_blank">Dan McLaughlin</a></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br />Pebble Beach: It's certainly one of the most photogenic... and most photographed... golf courses in the world.<br /><br />Whether you're playing the fabled course or attending an event there, chances are you'll find yourself reaching for your camera constantly. It can even be a tad bit distracting if you're attempting to go low with limited skills. &nbsp;But the memories you'll capture... the breathtaking coastal vistas, the perfectly sculptured greens, or the beaming selfies you take on 18 with your playing partners... will more than justify a few high numbers.<br /><br />As the <a href="http://www.attpbgolf.com/" target="_blank">AT&amp;T National Pebble Beach ProAm</a> came to a close on Sunday afternoon... with Brandt Snedeker as 2015 Champion... <a href="http://thedanplan.com/about/" target="_blank">Dan McLaughlin</a> posted the photo above on Twitter. &nbsp;Taken as the trophy presentation was about to begin... and just as a dense fog rolled in after a brilliantly sunny Sunday on the Monterey Peninsula.<br /><br />Dan was one of four exceptional golfers who spent last week covering the event from the fan's perspective. &nbsp;Invited... along with Katie Horsford, Tim Lang and Tiffany Fitzgerald... by AT&amp;T, in celebration of 30 years with the Pebble Beach National ProAm, the foursome shared their photos with golf fans around the world as they experienced not only the tournament but also the rich history, superb facilities and extraordinary scenery that make Pebble Beach so memorable. &nbsp;The lucky foursome will undoubtedly be sharing memories of their Pebble Beach experience for a long time to come. <br /><br />So what course does a dedicated golfer dream about after playing Pebble Beach? &nbsp;Ballybunion and the Old Course at St Andrews floated to the top of my list last year after I played Pebble. So I posed that question to Dan McLaughin and he came up with a course that wasn't even on my radar: Barndougle Dunes Golf Links in... Tasmania, Australia. So I checked it out and indeed, it looks spectacular, but for me... and I'm guessing Dan, Kate, Tim and Tiffany feel the same... another trip to Pebble Beach is right up there too.<br /><br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8NiIVyqF07g?rel=0" width="560"></iframe>Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-72892916804374031662015-02-16T19:03:00.001-05:002015-02-16T19:17:05.051-05:00Season Plans at Pound Ridge Golf Club, New York's Only Pete Dye Design <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W7veuFIOqEU/VOAz6ffsutI/AAAAAAAA4ZA/KqRaskulGmc/s1600/POUND%2BRIDGE%2BGOLF.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W7veuFIOqEU/VOAz6ffsutI/AAAAAAAA4ZA/KqRaskulGmc/s1600/POUND%2BRIDGE%2BGOLF.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1">Here in New England... with temperatures entrenched in single digits and a landscape that's been shrouded in snow for weeks ... golf may not currently be top-of mind. &nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span class="s1"><br /></span><span class="s1">However... implausible as it may seem... daylight savings time begins in just three weeks, and golf will soon follow.&nbsp;</span><br /><span class="s1"><br /></span><span class="s1">So now's the time to think of solidifying the golf season ahead.</span><br /><br />For those in or around the Fairfield, CT/Westchester NY area,<span class="s1">&nbsp;<a href="http://www.poundridgegolf.com/">Pound Ridge Golf Club</a></span>, Westchester County’s award-winning daily fee course, has announced its 2015 Golf Plans.<br /><br />Pound Ridge is a superlative course by any standards. New York's only Pete Dye Design, the course has received <a href="http://www.poundridgegolf.com/news-reviews" target="_blank">numerous accolades and made myriad "top course" lists</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://thegolfgirl.blogspot.com/2014/11/pound-ridge-golf-exceptional-course.html" target="_blank">I had the pleasure of playing at Pound Ridge Golf Club</a> in the fall, and was ultra-impressed by the expansive vistas and dramatic rock formations that defined the visual experience. But what really made my round remarkable was how much fun it was! &nbsp;Thanks to the Dye's brilliant design, incorporating five sets of tees, golfers of widely varying skill levels can find both the challenge and the playability that makes for a wonderful, memorable round. &nbsp;I definitely look forward to playing Pound Ridge in the Spring.<br /><br /><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; outline: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px 0px 10px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>2015 Golf Plans at Pound Ridge Golf Club, featuring Individual and Deluxe options.</b></span></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; outline: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px 0px 10px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">New for 2015, the Deluxe Plan is a $15,000 debit account offering the holder and all guests 20% off peak weekday and weekend rates. The Individual Plan is a $3,000 debit account entitling the holder to 10% off applicable green fees. Both plans include exclusive access to the entire 2015 tee sheet for booking advance tee times, are non-refundable, non-transferable and for golf, only.</span></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; outline: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px 0px 10px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"The Deluxe and Individual Plans are two strong values for serious players who relish convenience and exclusivity," says Pound Ridge General Manager Todd Leavenworth. "Paired with the recent expansion of the clubhouse, these annual programs present a viable alternative to the multi-year commitment of private clubs."</span></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; outline: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px 0px 10px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">For game tracking and improvement, the Individual Plan includes USGA handicap tracking via GHIN and use of all practice facilities (range, short game area and putting green) 4 p.m. to close, Monday through Thursday (April - Oct.). For more information, visit <a href="http://www.poundridgegolf.com/golf-plans">http://www.poundridgegolf.com/golf-plans</a> or call the golf shop at 914.764.5771.</span></div></div>Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-40301135220064537522015-02-14T01:05:00.000-05:002015-02-23T19:11:54.961-05:00Scenery, Celebrities & Selfies at The AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sKPnNza0jmU/VOvBBi15c8I/AAAAAAAA4jU/zH1A5_TBWNQ/s1600/AT%26T%2BNational%2BPebble%2BBeach%2BProAm%2B-%2BTim%2BLang.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sKPnNza0jmU/VOvBBi15c8I/AAAAAAAA4jU/zH1A5_TBWNQ/s1600/AT%26T%2BNational%2BPebble%2BBeach%2BProAm%2B-%2BTim%2BLang.png" height="356" width="640"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>AT&amp;T National Pebble Beach ProAm photo: <a href="https://twitter.com/TimLangGolf" target="_blank">Tim Lang</a></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><b><br></b><br><br><b><br></b><br><br>The dramatic scenery at Pebble Beach is consistently breathtaking. Undulating fairways and greens, craggy cliffs and... of course... the pounding, blue Pacific, create a tableau that&#39;s at once bracingly exciting and profoundly calming. <br><div class="p2"><br></div><div class="p1">For the past several days, four exceptional golfers, Tiffany Fitzgerald, Tim Lang, Katie Horsford and Dan McLaughlin have been wowing digital golf fans with their own personal impressions of the iconic golf course and its gorgeous coastal setting.</div><div class="p2"><br></div><div class="p1">In the lead-up to this week&#39;s <span class="s1">Pebble Beach National Pro-Am</span>, the foursome has been involved in a series of exclusive events and activities as AT&amp;T celebrates thirty years as title sponsor of the popular event: they&#39;ve experienced cutting edge technology at the Pebble Beach Golf Academy, explored Pebble&#39;s past with a history tour and observed the excitement of the 3M Celebrity Challenge from AT&amp;T&#39;s Sky Box. That&#39;s in addition to <i>playing</i> the course themselves... and attending myriad evening events. And because stars of sports and entertainment are an integral part of the AT&amp;T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, each of the foursome has had numerous encounters with well known athletes and entertainers... not to mention the PGA stars playing in this week&#39;s tournament. <span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><a href="http://thegolfgirl.blogspot.com/2015/02/scenery-celebrities-selfies-at-at.html#more" target="_blank">READ MORE&gt;&gt;&gt;</a></b></span><br><br></div><div class="p2"><br></div><a href="http://thegolfgirl.blogspot.com/2015/02/scenery-celebrities-selfies-at-at.html#more">READ MORE &gt;&gt;&gt;</a>Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-6315785205438798952015-02-12T15:24:00.000-05:002015-02-23T18:23:03.241-05:00West Palm Real Estate + Golf Pong Trick Shots = Elegant Awesomeness <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/603727_798767133522315_7229215939429813160_n.jpg?oh=c56e0afb02923b1cf2af4d93ee06189b&amp;oe=5597210B&amp;__gda__=1431352039_58d460c1bf51c180048596d6e19ce5d4" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/603727_798767133522315_7229215939429813160_n.jpg?oh=c56e0afb02923b1cf2af4d93ee06189b&amp;oe=5597210B&amp;__gda__=1431352039_58d460c1bf51c180048596d6e19ce5d4" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />By all outward appearances, Quinton Watson and Kyle Johnson are your standard frat boy types; youthful and good looking, they exude a playful self-confidence and tend to dress in modified A&amp;F style with backwards ball caps and perpetually bare knees.<br /><br />As such, one would suspect that these young men do a healthy amount of partying, engage in an occasional food fight and play a decent game of Beer Pong. <br /><br />Well, they may or may not be profligate partiers who launch edible projectiles, there's an ample amount of evidence (to be found on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/TheChemBros3" target="_blank">their YouTube channel</a>&nbsp;and elsewhere)&nbsp;that these two Florida State students... who call themselves <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thechembros3" target="_blank">the ChemBros</a>... have taken Beer Pong to the next level.<br /><br />Actually they've taken it well beyond the next level: first they upped the game to Golf Pong bringing golf balls and various irons into play, then they perfected an engaging series of trick shots using local ranges, their modest apartment a garage, a backyard... and the flat bed of a pick up truck. It was ultra-impressive but still somewhat... <i>plebeian</i>.<br /><br />With their latest video however, Quinton and Kyle have moved their act to a Mediterranean Revival mansion in West Palm Beach. &nbsp;There they take full advantage of the structure's classic style... using the massive facades, sweeping stairways, tiled balconies and luxurious water features to execute the most elegant trick shots I've ever seen. &nbsp;They're featured in the well-produced video below which will appeal to both golf fans and those with an interest in high end West Palm Real Estate. <br /><br />Despite the luxury venue, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thechembros3" target="_blank">ChemBros</a> themselves remain faithful to their charming frat boy esthetic. <br /><br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cQBy3TQdv9A?rel=0" width="560"></iframe>Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-9841560817907729502015-02-10T12:58:00.001-05:002015-02-10T16:24:36.700-05:00Tiffany Fitzgerald - Helping Others to Share the Rewards of Golf<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sCSWAEtS124?rel=0" width="560"></iframe><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For the past several years Tiffany Fitzgareld has shared her experience as a golfer, and helped other women enjoy the rewards of the game through her unique company, <a href="http://www.blackgirlsgolf.net/" target="_blank">Black Girls Golf. </a></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This week Tiffany is one of a distinctive foursome providing a fan's eye view of the <a href="http://www.attpbgolf.com/tournament" target="_blank">AT&amp;T Pebble Beach National ProAm</a>. &nbsp;In the video above she tells the inspiring story of her introduction to golf, talks about her company and its mission... and about how she felt when she found out she was headed for Pebble Beach.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><i><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">• This post is in partnership with AT&amp;T. All opinions are my own.</span></b></i><br /><i><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></b></i><i><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></b></i>Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-61564585293386678372015-02-10T12:56:00.000-05:002015-02-10T16:24:55.289-05:00A Sweet Surprise for the Passionate Golfer on Valentine's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V-ulCYEvYIc/VNoxkr3mSJI/AAAAAAAA4TI/35_1xUj-T3o/s1600/Golfer's%2BValentine.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V-ulCYEvYIc/VNoxkr3mSJI/AAAAAAAA4TI/35_1xUj-T3o/s1600/Golfer's%2BValentine.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">LOVE it or hate it, Valentine’s day is fast approaching.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you find yourself pondering over what to do for that special someone, why not think outside of the proverbial box... and consider a <i>special</i> box... of golf balls.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For the right recipient it's a gift guaranteed to provoke more passion than the standard, predictable box of chocolates…. Or... how about chocolate golf balls?&nbsp; They’re available in many varieties, certain to sweeten the game for that special someone.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Golf ball chocolates are available from <a href="http://www.lindtusa.com/shop/milk-chocolate-golf-balls-trio" rel="nofollow">Lindt</a>, <a href="http://www.prezzybox.com/chocolate-golf-balls.aspx" rel="nofollow">Prezzybox.com</a>&nbsp;and numerous other fine chocolate purveyors.</span></div>Cathleen Farrhttps://plus.google.com/113206641082113649076noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-3523253338007045332015-02-07T11:36:00.000-05:002015-02-07T12:39:47.362-05:00AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am - From The Golf Fan's Perspective<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="p1"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4viuAALfC7M/VNY855WxZhI/AAAAAAAA4RI/EG7e8dB0E3Y/s1600/AT%26T%2BPebble%2BBeach%2BNational%2BPro-Am%2Bk.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4viuAALfC7M/VNY855WxZhI/AAAAAAAA4RI/EG7e8dB0E3Y/s1600/AT%26T%2BPebble%2BBeach%2BNational%2BPro-Am%2Bk.png" height="640" width="425" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's one of the most exciting events on the PGA Tour... and it'll be here in just a couple of days: the <a href="http://www.attpbgolf.com/" target="_blank"><span class="s1">AT&amp;T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am</span>.</a> The courses are magical... the field includes the world's top golfers and a select cast of celebrities. Then there's the history: spanning more than 50 years, this tournament was once Bing Crosby's clambake, a northern California social and charity event where golf was something of a second thought.</span></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="p1"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As the years passed the event evolved, these days the world's top golfers make their way to Pebble Beach each February to compete on three of the planet's most beautiful golf courses.</span></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="p1"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For the past thirty years AT&amp;T has been the tournament's title sponsor, and in honor of this milestone they've selected four extraordinary golf fans to share a <i>fan's eye view</i> of the unique event:</span></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b><b>Tiffany Fitzgareld</b> is the founder of&nbsp;<a href="http://www.blackgirlsgolf.net/" target="_blank">Black Girls Golf</a>, a golf organization for African American women. Her mission is to introduce women and minorities to the game through golf instruction and networking events that make the game accessible, affordable and fun.</span><br /><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">https://twitter.com/BlackGirlsGolf</span></b><br /><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">https://www.facebook.com/BlackGirlsGolf.Net&nbsp;</span></b><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b><b>Dan McLaughlin </b>is an average man with an extraordinary plan. With <a href="http://thedanplan.com/" target="_blank">The Dan Plan</a> his goal is to become a professional golfer through 10,000 hours of deliberate practice. &nbsp;He's now half way there, on-track and excited to see Pebble Beach for the first time.</span><br /><div class="p1"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">https://twitter.com/thedanplan</span></b></div><div class="p1"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">https://www.facebook.com/TheDanPlanGolf</span></b></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Tim Lang </b>was a US Marine serving in Iraq when his leg was severely injured by an IED, ultimately requiring amputation. &nbsp;Initially depressed and despondent, his competitive spirit was reignited when he discovered golf. Tim's quest to master the game has allowed him to recapture his athleticism and drive. He now inspires others as an inspirational speaker.</span><br /><div class="p1"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>https://twitter.com/timlanggolf</b><span class="s1"><b>&nbsp;</b></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Katie Horsford &nbsp;</b>is a confident 17-year-old, and an inspiration to younger golfers in her community's First Tee program, so its hard to believe that just a few years ago she was shy, withdrawn and uncomfortable with others. Focused on her goal of becoming a professional golfer, Katie credits the game for her positive personal development.</span><br /><div class="p1"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">https://twitter.com/kthorsford</span></b></div><div class="p1"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">http://instagram.com/katietaylor15</span></b></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This fabulous foursome will be participating in a series of exclusive experiences and sharing them via social media during the tournament week. The following are just a few of the events on their busy AT&amp;T Pebble Beach schedule:</span><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq"><div class="p1"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="p2"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">• Attend a charitable event for the Veteran’s Transition Center of Monterey County</span></div><div class="p2"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">• Play in the Boys &amp; Girls Club Pro-AM</span></div><div class="p2"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">• Pay a visit to the Golf Academy to experience new technology</span></div><div class="p2"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">• Walk the course with the Pebble Beach Historian</span></div><div class="p2"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">• Watch the 3M Celebrity Challenge from AT&amp;T’s Sky Box</span></div><div class="p2"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">• Attend a Meet &amp; Greet with pro golfer, Jordan Spieth</span></div><div class="p2"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">• Have the exclusive opportunity to watch the tournament from inside the ropes</span></div><div class="p2"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">• Teeing off on the iconic Pebble Beach course</span></div><div class="p1"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div></blockquote><div class="p1"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tiffany, Dan, Tim and Katie will be posting from their individual social media accounts listed in their profiles above.&nbsp; You can also keep up-to date with this amazing journey via the event hashtag #ATTPROAM</span></div><div class="p1"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="p1"><i><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>•<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>“This post is in partnership with AT&amp;T. All opinions are my own.”</b></span></i></div><div class="p1"><i><br /></i></div></div>Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-62191736616399063902015-01-29T22:15:00.000-05:002015-02-07T12:33:31.841-05:00The Azalea Orgy Shirt: Same Inspiration, Different Interpretations <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oR5qzC5EuSE/VMpMT102_bI/AAAAAAAA33Q/1GPkL7xH-EI/s1600/Golf%2BRefugees%2B%3A%2BGolf%2BGirl.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oR5qzC5EuSE/VMpMT102_bI/AAAAAAAA33Q/1GPkL7xH-EI/s1600/Golf%2BRefugees%2B%3A%2BGolf%2BGirl.png" height="320" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />A couple of weeks ago I happily accepted a challenge from my long-time friends at <a href="http://golf-refugees.blogspot.com/2015/01/masters-design-challenge-entry.html" target="_blank">Golf Refugees</a> to design a limited edition women's golf shirt for the 2015 Masters. &nbsp;To provide some added inspiration and drive the design process I came up with a slightly salacious... but rather fitting... name:&nbsp;<i>An Orgy of Pink Azaleas</i>.<br /><br />Though I'd never before tried my hand at apparel design, I assumed my fondness for fashion and the numerous years I'd spent immersed in t<i>he golf lifestyle </i>would enable me to come up with something pretty wonderful. <br /><br />That, however, did not turn out to be the case. You see, I <i>was</i> able to <i>visualize</i> my azalea orgy... I knew I wanted it simple and whimsical, slightly 60's-geometric... but I found myself totally unable to render it onto a wearable garment. &nbsp;I did the best I could, but was less than satisfied with the end result. It was altogether too cartoonish; like something Dora the Explorer might wear... were she lucky enough to procure tickets to the Masters. <br /><br />Meanwhile my challengers presented their design: a sublime creation, featuring a cascade of artfully variegated fuchsia blossoms, on an organic pink, collarless top. It's based on a vintage wallpaper design. I fell in love with it, and it's exactly what <i>I</i> will wear to Augusta, should <i>I</i>&nbsp;somehow manage to wrangle the elusive badge. <br /><br />In the meantime, though I enjoyed the challenge, I think I've got to concede to Golf Refugees, as theirs is clearly the better design. &nbsp;I'm happy to take credit for the name though.Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-19642930353475905212015-01-25T22:40:00.000-05:002015-01-29T13:50:09.305-05:00The More Things Change: Bill Haas Wins the Humana Challenge<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o_fQg3p9V_k/VMZzKjOPt9I/AAAAAAAA31g/LQwv5Opapxg/s1600/Billy%2BHaas-1%2B(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o_fQg3p9V_k/VMZzKjOPt9I/AAAAAAAA31g/LQwv5Opapxg/s1600/Billy%2BHaas-1%2B(2).jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bill Haas at the Travelers Championship in 2008</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: #38761d;"><i>Exactly five years ago I posted this story about Bill Haas and his first PGA Tour win.&nbsp;</i><i>Back then it was known as the Bob Hope Classic, and the 27 year-old had won the&nbsp;event by one shot over Matt Kuchar, Tim Clark&nbsp;and Bubba Watson.&nbsp;</i></span></b><br /><i><b><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b></i><i><b><span style="color: #38761d;">These days it's the <a href="http://humanachallenge.com/" target="_blank">Humana Challenge</a>&nbsp;and once again, Bill Hass has emerged victorious in the California desert. &nbsp;This time, however, he was trailed by a group of not three, but five players, one of whom... &nbsp;deja vu all over again... was Matt Kuchar. &nbsp;</span></b></i><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;"><i><br /></i><i>Bill Haas is 32 now and this marks his 6th PGA Tour win and it wouldn't surprise me at all to see him wearing a green jacket in the near future.</i></span></b><br /><i><br /></i><i>January 25, 2010</i>&nbsp;- Here in Connecticut an icy rain fell from sunrise till dusk today, and the skies never cleared. But my Monday was made much brighter by&nbsp;<a href="http://www.linkslifegolf.com/2010/01/25/bill-haas-and-the-family-business/">a Bill Haas victory at the Bob Hope Classic</a>. You see, I've been a major Bill Haas fan since June 17, 2008.<br /><br />Before you think I'm weird, the reason I remember the exact date is because that's the day I actually met the gracious golfer on the practice green at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.tpcriverhighlands.com/">TPC River Highlands.</a><br /><br />It was the week leading up to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.tpcriverhighlands.com/">the Travelers Championship</a>&nbsp;and the players were coming in from Torrey Pines, after&nbsp;<a href="http://www.golf.com/golf/usopen/2008">one of the most memorable US Opens ever</a>. Buzz was just beginning to circulate about the possibility that Tiger might have to take some time off... perhaps even the remainder of the season... to mend his knee; the prospect of several Tiger-less months seemed to cast an aura of uncertainly on the green that day. -&nbsp;In light of what's happened since, that seems&nbsp;<strike>almost&nbsp;</strike>extremely ironic, doesn't it?<br /><br />Being a weekday... and quite early in the morning... the sparse crowd around the green consisted mainly of prosperous looking senior citizens, clamoring for autographs. They were uniformly equipped with fresh black Sharpies and shiny new golf balls. Once signed, I'm guessing they lovingly placed the balls in windowed display cases.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ach7wcr-QgU/VMXIGseDTpI/AAAAAAAA3z4/dXhkz2lMFGw/s1600/bill%2Bhaas%2Bball%2B(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ach7wcr-QgU/VMXIGseDTpI/AAAAAAAA3z4/dXhkz2lMFGw/s1600/bill%2Bhaas%2Bball%2B(1).jpg" height="256" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bill Haas - &nbsp;always fan-friendly</td></tr></tbody></table>But, as I say, there was a strange vibe that day. The players spoke among themselves, commiserated with their caddies and went about their practice routines. Most of them seemed in no mood to humor the early morning autograph seekers. But there was one young guy who didn't hesitate to approach the fans standing around the green.<br /><br />It was Bill Haas who... I'll admit... I was unfamiliar with at the time. As he politely proceeded to autograph balls, exchanging pleasantries with the seniors, I complimented him on his pleated trousers which were old-fashioned and oddly elegant. He smiled and said he was surprised I had noticed, he said he preferred pants with pleats though they weren't always easy to find. I asked if I could take a photo and, once again, he gave me that great smile.<br /><br />So, that's the story of how I became a Bill Haas fan on June 17, 2008. And why it was pretty special to see him win in&nbsp;<a href="http://stats.cbc.ca/golf/story.asp?tour=PGA&amp;i=20100126013528840000101">an exciting final round at the Bob Hope Classic today.</a><br /><br /><br />Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-70032817465324913792015-01-15T23:55:00.000-05:002015-01-16T18:55:54.619-05:00An Orgy Of Pink Azaleas & The Golf Refugees Design Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wmb7Bj4AOjY/VLiY5iT0M1I/AAAAAAAA3iU/S8sIjn9hM1g/s1600/Azaleas%2Bat%2BGolf%2BGirl%2BMedia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wmb7Bj4AOjY/VLiY5iT0M1I/AAAAAAAA3iU/S8sIjn9hM1g/s1600/Azaleas%2Bat%2BGolf%2BGirl%2BMedia.jpg" height="640" width="544" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I've been challenged... by socially-conscious golf design vanguards, <i><a href="http://golf-refugees.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Golf Refugees</a></i>﻿ &nbsp;... to design a limited edition women's golf shirt for the 2015 Masters. &nbsp;And although in most people's minds, <i>green</i> is the undisputed color of the Masters, I've decided to think <i>pink</i>. <br /><br />So, I'm taking my inspiration from that iconic flowering shrub so omnipresent at Augusta National: The Azalea... and more specifically, the strong pink varieties of said shrub.<br /><br /><b>An Orgy of Pink Azaleas</b><i>;</i> that's what came to my mind when the idea of a special <i>Masters golf shirt</i> was presented by Golf Refugees. &nbsp;You see, they themselves have designed a&nbsp;<a href="http://golf-refugees.blogspot.com/2015/01/sun-kissed-green.html" target="_blank">distinctively styled Masters shirt they call Sun-Kissed-Green</a>; it's an organic polo, featuring a bold vertical stripe of multiple shades of green.<br /><br />I'm working on my design and should have it ready by sometime next week. At that point I'll present it for our competition... and we'll call on our social media communities to vote for a winner.<br /><br />I must say, I'm looking forward to this challenge.<br /><br />Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-85233548931256053952015-01-05T14:23:00.000-05:002015-01-05T22:22:46.969-05:00Deepdale Golf Girl - The Blonde in the Flouncy Red Skirt<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vq6JXdMkNzM/VJESRU4VRXI/AAAAAAAA1Xo/ClUdwpcSRx0/s1600/ladies%2Btee%2B1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vq6JXdMkNzM/VJESRU4VRXI/AAAAAAAA1Xo/ClUdwpcSRx0/s1600/ladies%2Btee%2B1.png" height="400" width="327" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deepdale Golf Girl - Sitting sentinel over thousand of tee shots</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>There she sits,</b></i> motionless, throughout the day, watching golfers launch their balls onto the verdant fairways at <a href="http://www.deepdalegolfclub.com/history.html" target="_blank">Deepdale Golf Club</a>. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">A winsome blonde with delicate features, this diminutive diva wears a lacy, low-cut blouse and a billowy scarlet skirt. In one hand she holds a slatted fan, in the other, a white handkerchief... summers can be steamy on Long Island's north shore.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">She is not, however, a lady of leisure. &nbsp;Despite her fanciful garb the girl has a job to do; implausible as it may seem, she is a tee marker.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">These days, golf courses generally mark their tees with uninspired spheres of plastic, in a small range of colors to designate degree of difficulty. This makes total sense in a modern world where whimsy must give way to practicality in order to ensure sustainability... making</span><span style="font-size: large;">&nbsp;the little lady in the flouncy red skirt, all the more seductive. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">A couple of weeks ago, one of these very distinctive tee markers, was on the auction block at <a href="http://www.greenjacketauctions.com/site/index.asp" target="_blank">Green Jacket Auctions</a>, a company specialized in the authentication, appraisal and auctioning of golf antiques and collectibles.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">With a starting bid of $50.00,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greenjacketauctions.com/site/bid/bidplace.asp?itemid=13570#bid" target="_blank">Lot 426:<i> Ladies Tee Marker from Deepdale Golf Club</i></a>, sold for just $69.00 at the 2014 Winter Holiday Auction. &nbsp;I discovered the auction after it had closed, much to my dismay, but will be on the lookout for this... and other... unique golf collectibles in the future.&nbsp;</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.greenjacketauctions.com/site/auction.asp" target="_blank">The next Green Jacket Auction takes place from March 25, to April 11.</a>&nbsp;In the meantime catch founders Ryan Carey and Bob Zefian on <a href="http://www.back9network.com/schedule/" target="_blank">Back9Network, where the original series,&nbsp;<i>Golf Treasures</i></a>, highlights their experiences in the fascinating world of golf memorabilia.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-90594037059871715282014-12-11T19:08:00.000-05:002014-12-11T19:09:56.796-05:00Add Warmth to Your Golf Wardrobe With Marsala; 2015 Color of the Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/marsala_plays_golf/set?id=142887394" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6gVCQN3ZDcU/VInYcrbWx0I/AAAAAAAA1Dk/06PwXqdNju4/s1600/Marsala%2BGolf.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #444444;">Check my inspiration board, <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/marsala_plays_golf/set?id=142887394" target="_blank">Marsala Plays Golf </a>&nbsp;on <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/home" target="_blank">Polyvore</a> for ideas on how to bring this warm color to the course</span></b> &nbsp; &nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Move over Radiant Orchid, <a href="http://www.pantone.com/pages/index.aspx?pg=21167" target="_blank">Marsala</a> is here.<br /><br />Pantone 18-1438, Marsala, was recently declared the 2015 Color of the Year by <a href="http://www.pantone.com/pages/pantone.aspx?pg=19306" target="_blank">world wide color authority, PANTONE®</a>.<br /><br />As a result we can expect to see a distinct warming trend in the colors that surround us; everything from fashion, to media, to industrial design and home decor, will be taking on the rich, earthy tones of a fortified red wine... and the fairways and greens of the world's golf courses are no exception.<br /><br />Just as <a href="http://thegolfgirl.blogspot.com/search?q=orchid" target="_blank">Radiant Orchid</a>, &nbsp;the outgoing COY&nbsp;made its golf apparel mark in 2014 ( <a href="http://www.yourbrandpartner.com/promo-insights/fashionable-friday-how-rock-radiant-orchid" target="_blank">Nike,</a>&nbsp;<a href="http://shop.poodle.eu/chill-black-w-tree-of-life-pink/" target="_blank">Poodle</a>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.jofit.com/clearance/v-neck-tank-orchid" target="_blank">JoFit</a>, <a href="http://www.eurekagolf.co.uk/daily-sports-ladies-golf-maggie-long-sleeved-rollneck-orchid" target="_blank">Daily Sports</a>&nbsp;) Marsala is sure to figure in 2015 collections, but while the former was distinctly modern; an icy-bright shade of pinkish purple, this year's choice is somewhat more, shall we say, <i>muted</i>. Some have called Marsala old-fashioned, dull... even...&nbsp;<i>icky</i>.<br /><br />Well as my French husband often says, "<i>les goûts et les couleurs ne se discutent pas" </i>which roughly translated means, "<i>individual&nbsp;preferences for taste and color are totally subjective", </i>and to that end Marsala also has no shortage of fans...and besides you don't need to transform your entire wardrobe... or decor... to partake of the year's trendiest hue. Marsala fits into numerous color palettes as a perfect compliment. <br /><br />I see Marsala on the golf course with a color palette that includes burgundy, coral, navy and taupe... but that's just one of many that work. See what you can do with Marsala. After all it's color of the year for the next 12 months, you may as well have some fun with it. <br /><br />Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-19578288144015956592014-11-29T16:38:00.000-05:002014-12-01T17:27:31.714-05:00Experiential Giving: This Holiday Season, Give the Gift of Golf<div class="p1"><div style="text-align: right;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T6V5urGZrIA/VHzolbP4IgI/AAAAAAAA0rU/cVn_lj6YPf8/s1600/GOLF%2BGIRL%2BMEDIA.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T6V5urGZrIA/VHzolbP4IgI/AAAAAAAA0rU/cVn_lj6YPf8/s1600/GOLF%2BGIRL%2BMEDIA.png" height="389" width="400" /></a></div>While the golf season may have ended in some parts of the world, the gifting season is just getting underway... and these days, exchanging end-of-year presents is a custom that exists all over the world.<br /><br />Of late, I’ve really been liking the idea of <i>experiential gifts. &nbsp;</i>Maybe that's because an increasing number of my "giftees" seem to want to "<i>make memories"</i>&nbsp;instead of just collecting more stuff.<br /><br />Take my accountant, a true minimalist, he's always been hard to shop for; He doesn't play golf and he's definitely not the type who lusts for Hermes ties, Cartier cufflinks or other such luxury&nbsp;tchotchkes... but he once told me he’d dreamed of becoming a race car driver. &nbsp;Well, that's probably not going to happen, but I just bought my much-appreciated bean counter a 2 lap, “race track ride-along” in a Lamborghini Gallardo! It's an experiential gift I'm fairly certain he'll love.<br /><br />In an effort to strengthen her core for golf, &nbsp;my enterprising twin sister, recently took up Aerial Acrobatics (AKA: pole dancing), She loves it and she's planning on gifting all of her incredulous golfing girlfriends (including me) with an “Intro to Pole” lesson.<br /><br />These are a couple of... um...&nbsp;<i>interesting</i> examples, but you get the idea.&nbsp; What better gift can there be than a memorable experience that may otherwise not happen?&nbsp;</div><br /><div class="p1"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DKo2v3KAkeU/VHzpAwPuj4I/AAAAAAAA0rc/RcdLgbpxSHQ/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2014-11-29%2Bat%2B2.07.47%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DKo2v3KAkeU/VHzpAwPuj4I/AAAAAAAA0rc/RcdLgbpxSHQ/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2014-11-29%2Bat%2B2.07.47%2BAM.png" height="320" width="305" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.doralarrowwood.com/activities/golf" target="_blank">A golf pass at Doral Arrowwood?</a> Yes please!</b></td></tr></tbody></table>As far as <i><b>golf</b> giftees</i> are concerned, experiential gifting should prove a huge timesaver and a no-brainer. For golf fans, tickets to watch the pros play would certainly make a memorable gift, and many of the top tournaments offer their own experiential gifts. <a href="http://travelerschampionship.com/tickets-packages/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Travelers Championship's <i>Golf For The Holidays</i> ticket packages</a> will be a welcome surprise for several on my list.<br /><br />Do you have a course you love and would like your friends to experience?&nbsp; Pop a golf pass in their stocking and get them out of their home course rut. I plan to introduce a couple of my ladies league friends to the <i>Little Blue Monster,</i> a wonderful resort course located in nearby Westchester County, NY, with a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/doralarrowwood/photos/a.137171051951.110216.98193451951/10152910491146952/?type=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Golf Pass Special at the Doral Arrowwood Hotel. </a><br /><br />Or how about a lesson... or series of lessons... with a PGA/LPGA Pro. <a href="http://www.practicerange.com/Golf-Gift-Certificates/Golf-Lesson-Gift-Certificate.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Golf Lesson Gift Certificates</a> might even turn a non-golfing friend into a golfing one and how awesome would that be?<br /><br /><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>• We'll be featuring plenty of other golf gift ideas throughout the next few weeks, so check back often.</b></span><br /><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b><br /></b></span></div>Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-53135328252752204832014-11-25T13:17:00.000-05:002014-11-25T13:23:18.437-05:00Young Indian Golfers Welcome a Global Field to The Women's Indian Open<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sgh0SHng-xw/VHS9DFmOeSI/AAAAAAAA0Qk/4Ue6Fm5ZuFo/s1600/rsz_1womens_indian_open_2014.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sgh0SHng-xw/VHS9DFmOeSI/AAAAAAAA0Qk/4Ue6Fm5ZuFo/s1600/rsz_1womens_indian_open_2014.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>The "Indian Challenge" striving to win at the <a href="http://www.womensindianopen.com/" target="_blank">Hero Woman's Indian Open</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;photos via <a href="http://golfingindian.com/">golfingindian.com</a></b>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The <a href="http://www.womensindianopen.com/" target="_blank"><b>Hero Women's Indian Open</b></a> will take place from December 4th through 6th at the historic&nbsp;<a href="http://www.delhigolfclub.org/" target="_blank">Delhi Golf Club</a>. &nbsp;In addition to a stellar global field including players from 25 countries, a strong contingent of Indian golfers will be competing.<br /><br />In India, golf is growing at a steady pace with Indian men increasingly making their mark in International events.<br /><br />Women's golf is also growing in India, having come into its own over the past decade. &nbsp;<a href="http://wgai.co.in/" target="_blank">The Women's Golf Association of India (WGAI)</a>, founded in 2005, has been empowering young players to build their competitive skills, while the <b>Hero Women's Indian Open,</b> established in 2007, provides a perfect platform for young home-grown golfers to test ttheir skills against top players from around the world.<br /><br />The "Indian Challenge" promises to be stronger than ever this year, with several young players poised to win. &nbsp;Among them, &nbsp;the spotlight is shining particularly brightly on:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BHwvj_wkYrI/VHS-RTpd7AI/AAAAAAAA0Qw/vuKmH6eQGz0/s1600/rsz_sharmila_nicollet_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BHwvj_wkYrI/VHS-RTpd7AI/AAAAAAAA0Qw/vuKmH6eQGz0/s1600/rsz_sharmila_nicollet_.jpg" /></a></div><br /><b><a href="http://www.sharmilanicollet.com/sn/index.mako" target="_blank">Sharmila Nicollet</a></b>, &nbsp;She's already made a name for herself at home and around the world, becoming the youngest golfer to win the <i>All India Ladies Amateur Championship</i>, and the youngest Indian golfer to qualify for the <i>Ladies European Tour</i>.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z70ETO6fAtQ/VHS_Q29E_OI/AAAAAAAA0Q4/zNENurd5ggE/s1600/rsz_vani_kapoor_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z70ETO6fAtQ/VHS_Q29E_OI/AAAAAAAA0Q4/zNENurd5ggE/s1600/rsz_vani_kapoor_.jpg" /></a></div><br /><b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JSHZ3d5zBY" target="_blank">Gauri Monga</a></b>, after an impressive 5th place finish as an amateur in 2013, this 21year-old is making her professional debut at this year's&nbsp;<i>Women's Indian Open</i>... with home course advantage.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9Z0eRbg170/VHS_dVVC5_I/AAAAAAAA0RA/tL3Vq7xrcDc/s1600/rsz_gauri_monga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9Z0eRbg170/VHS_dVVC5_I/AAAAAAAA0RA/tL3Vq7xrcDc/s1600/rsz_gauri_monga.jpg" /></a></div><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><a href="http://golfingindian.com/videos/vani-kapoor-hero-womens-open-2014/" target="_blank">Vani Kapoor</a></b>, She's a multiple&nbsp;<i>Hero Women's Golf Tour</i>&nbsp;winner coming off of a dream season and currently leading the&nbsp;<i>Hero Order of Merit</i>.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />For regular updates on the <b>Hero Women's Indian Open</b>, in depth information on Indian golfers and informed, entertaining insight on golf in India I highly recommend <a href="http://golfingindian.com/"><b>golfingindian.com</b></a>&nbsp;. &nbsp;You'll find exclusive articles and interviews, original videos and the latest news from the rapidly evolving world of Indian golf.<br /><br /><br />Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-40441933462441441822014-11-20T09:55:00.000-05:002014-11-20T10:03:53.484-05:00Uniqlo LifeWear - Women's Golf Apparel Perfect for a Winter Course<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;"><div style="position: relative;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/uniqlo_cozy_style_for_cold/set?.embedder=2680212&amp;.svc=blogger&amp;id=140831446" target="_blank"><img alt="UNIQLO - Cozy Style for Cold Weather Golf" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/e9Tyw8xZPqkqYIPG61wA/cid/140831446/id/zNyj2LFv5BGX46ytJh98cQ/size/c600x507.jpg" height="507" title="UNIQLO - Cozy Style for Cold Weather Golf" width="600" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><b><span style="color: #666666; font-size: xx-small;">&nbsp;On course with&nbsp;<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/uniqlo_cozy_style_for_cold/set?.embedder=2680212&amp;.svc=blogger&amp;id=140831446" target="_blank">UNIQLO</a>&nbsp;- several popular&nbsp;<a href="http://www.uniqlo.com/us/" target="_blank">LifeWear</a> pieces styled for cold weather golf &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://thegolfgirl.polyvore.com/?.embedder=2680212&amp;.svc=blogger" target="_blank">GolfGirlMedia</a>&nbsp;</span></b></small></div></div><br />Despite an early Arctic blast that's brought freezing temperatures to all 50 US states, many golfers aren't about to put their clubs away for the season.<br /><br />In fact, with a weekend warm-up projected for many parts of the country, the coming week... even here in New England... will likely feature golf for those of us who refuse to relinquish the game just yet.<br /><br />As far as apparel for those wintry rounds, It always seems to me that the most innovative and exciting cold weather golf styles come from Japan. &nbsp; Have a look at the 2014 Fall//Winter campaigns for companies like <a href="http://pearlygates.net/catalogue/2014wi/#page=1" target="_blank">Pearly Gates</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kappa.ne.jp/golf.html" target="_blank">Kappa Golf</a>, <a href="http://www.bwsp.co.jp/" target="_blank">Black &amp; White</a>, <a href="http://callawayapparel.jp/" target="_blank">Callaway Japan</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.grip-inter.com/brand/vivaheart/" target="_blank">Viva Heart</a>&nbsp;... to name just a few... and you'll see what I mean.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bjQtlUaWin0/VG4CUgAjEHI/AAAAAAAA0LU/diIPWs8iYxE/s1600/pearly%2Bgates%2Bgolf%2BW2014.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bjQtlUaWin0/VG4CUgAjEHI/AAAAAAAA0LU/diIPWs8iYxE/s1600/pearly%2Bgates%2Bgolf%2BW2014.png" height="207" width="320" /></a></div>Unfortunately, these Japanese collections are generally not available here in the US, and that tends to leave me quite frustrated as temperatures descend. <br /><br />That's why I'm rather ecstatic about <a href="http://www.uniqlo.com/us/" target="_blank">Uniqlo</a>. Now that the Japanese <i>LifeWear</i> designer has established a firm foothold in the US, we finally have access to apparel that features the technologically advanced textiles, marvelous design and extraordinary range of colors that are the hallmarks of Japan's golf clothing lines.<br /><br />Though not specifically a golf apparel company, Uniqlo offers numerous golf-perfect pieces in its <i>LifeWear</i> collection, and the awesome <a href="http://www.uniqlo.com/au/store/men/collections/adam-scott.html" target="_blank">Adam Scott is a Uniqlo brand ambassador</a>. &nbsp;Much to my delight the company just opened a store here in Danbury so naturally I've already selected numerous items for the frosty fairways we'll be playing on for the next several months. &nbsp;I'll definitely be wearing Uniqlo at next week's Thanksgiving shotgun.<br /><br />In the meantime, for ladies contemplating a cold weather round, I've styled <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/uniqlo_cozy_style_for_cold/set?id=140831446" target="_blank">several sublime winter golf outfit</a>s around Uniqlo pieces that are sure to keep you warm in style. Uniqlo makes men's clothes too... we'll feature them in a future post. <br /><br />Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-72793031973251256662014-11-10T21:34:00.000-05:002014-11-11T11:53:51.326-05:00Pound Ridge Golf: Exceptional Course, Stellar Conditions & Offseason Rates <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4V_ogQ4wz24/VGFnp4N-LfI/AAAAAAAAz94/pR2MAIGlTiA/s1600/Golf%2BGirl%2B-%2BPound%2BRidge%2B2014%2Bb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4V_ogQ4wz24/VGFnp4N-LfI/AAAAAAAAz94/pR2MAIGlTiA/s1600/Golf%2BGirl%2B-%2BPound%2BRidge%2B2014%2Bb.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div class="p1"><span style="color: #444444;"><b>Cathleen, playing from the Pine tees on the par-4 3rd at </b><span class="s1"><b><a href="http://www.poundridgegolf.com/">Pound Ridge Golf Course</a>&nbsp;**</b></span></span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="p1">In and about New England, late fall may seem an unlikely time to be seeking a superlative golf experience.&nbsp; Many resident golfers have packed away their clubs for the season, and the snowbirds have largely flown south. &nbsp;</div><div class="p2"><br /></div><div class="p1">What some of us know however, is that despite this collective congé… in fact, partly because of it… November and December can be the ideal time for a uniquely satisfying golf adventure, one that can't… or won't… ever be replicated in the high season.&nbsp; A perfect example of such is currently available at <a href="http://www.poundridgegolf.com/" target="_blank">Pound Ridge Golf Club</a>, one of the New York metropolitan area's most acclaimed courses.<br /><br />Located in Westchester County, NY, about 50 miles north of midtown Manhattan, Pound Ridge is extraordinary for a number of reasons. It's a singular site... topographically speaking... studded with rock outcroppings and intersected by streams. In the hands of legendary architect Pete Dye and his son Perry, this undulating terrain has been shaped into a course that's at once foreboding and whimsical.&nbsp; Five sets of tees... each of which offers distinct drama and challenge... make the course thrilling for players of widely varying skill levels.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uZ5UPhADNQU/VGFoK9sIBMI/AAAAAAAAz-A/VVukI8jJz7A/s1600/Golf%2BGirl%2B-Pound%2BRidge2014%2B-11-10%2Bat%2B7.58.06%2BPM%2B(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uZ5UPhADNQU/VGFoK9sIBMI/AAAAAAAAz-A/VVukI8jJz7A/s1600/Golf%2BGirl%2B-Pound%2BRidge2014%2B-11-10%2Bat%2B7.58.06%2BPM%2B(1).png" height="416" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #444444;">On the par-5 13th, "Pete's Rock" looms in the distance</span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div class="p2"><br /></div><div class="p1"></div><div class="p1">Playing from the <i>Pine</i> tees a couple of weeks ago, with my high handicap twin sister, we marveled at the creativity that made this "formidable" track so patently playable for golfers like us. Our far-forward tees allowed us to make pars... even a couple of birdies... while maintaining many of the intriguing features that make the course such a challenge for accomplished golfers playing from the way-back <i>Blacks</i>. Hat tip to Alice Dye.<br /><br /><div class="p1"><a href="http://www.poundridgegolf.com/news-reviews" target="_blank">Pound Ridge has received numerous accolades</a> since it opened in 2008, &nbsp;among the more recent:&nbsp;<i>#1 New York Area Course</i> (2010), <i>#1 US Open Worthy Public Course</i> (2012), <i>#3 Best Course Near You</i>&nbsp;(2014) <i>#4 Best in State</i> (2014).&nbsp;</div><div class="p1"><br /></div><div class="p1">Clearly a "bucket list" golf course, the late fall transition to off season rates makes this an optimum time to experience all Pound Ridge Golf Course has to offer. &nbsp;<b><span style="color: #666666;">Now through December 31, Fall/Winter rates of $150. before 1pm and $100 after&nbsp;apply, and include golf or pull cart and use of the club's practice facilities.</span></b>&nbsp; More information is available at <a href="http://www.poundridgegolf.com/" target="_blank">the Pound Ridge Golf website</a>.&nbsp;<span class="s1">&nbsp;</span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bI82Vl5MJE4/VGFuvT-4_yI/AAAAAAAAz-M/k3ScrZHfiFM/s1600/Pound%2BRidge%2BGolf%2BCourse%2B(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bI82Vl5MJE4/VGFuvT-4_yI/AAAAAAAAz-M/k3ScrZHfiFM/s1600/Pound%2BRidge%2BGolf%2BCourse%2B(1).jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #444444;">Pound Ridge Golf Club - One of America's premiere public golf courses</span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br /></span></div></div>Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-46386536202769559372014-10-30T01:51:00.002-04:002014-10-30T11:19:44.289-04:00Golf is Fun: The Relaxed Rules Of Golf... And A Dress Code To Match <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4Kd7J95pzVM/VEc0Q0gbYvI/AAAAAAAAyMc/s264Hr_PZgc/s1600/Cargo%2BShorts%2BGolf%2B(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4Kd7J95pzVM/VEc0Q0gbYvI/AAAAAAAAyMc/s264Hr_PZgc/s1600/Cargo%2BShorts%2BGolf%2B(1).png" height="506" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Cargo shorts on course.... last weekend at <a href="http://candlewoodvalleygolf.com/" target="_blank">Candlewood Valley Country Club</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><b>Several years ago</b>, the appearance of cargo shorts on a golf course was likely to cause... consternation... or worse. A most private clubs they were relegated to the <i>inappropriate</i> column, right there with halter tops, spandex, collarless shirts and often, anything denim. Even municipal, public and daily fee courses tended to view the ample, multi-pocketed trousers as unseemly. <br /><br />We called it <a href="http://thegolfgirl.blogspot.com/2008/05/cargo-shorts-golf-fashion-faux-pas.html" target="_blank">the <i>cargo controversy</i></a> when we wrote about it in 2008. &nbsp;The post... which focused on the outcry that followed one country club official's call to ban the polarizing garment... produced a spirited debate. &nbsp;Ultimately the consensus seemed to split equally between those who felt that cargo shorts were perfectly acceptable for golf and others who wanted to see them relegated to that aforementioned list of forbidden frocks.<br /><br />Much has changed since that early post. &nbsp;The ensuing years brought a prolonged financial crisis that hit golf particularly hard, hastening a decline in the number of players and fans. &nbsp;Younger players, in particular, were proving very difficult to engage and retain.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3FTfO2BwNrA/VFJUDn7EDLI/AAAAAAAAymE/xLBVJpnqf88/s1600/Golf%2Bin%2Bdenim%2B(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3FTfO2BwNrA/VFJUDn7EDLI/AAAAAAAAymE/xLBVJpnqf88/s1600/Golf%2Bin%2Bdenim%2B(1).jpg" height="307" width="320" /></b></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Jeans: the new khakis? For some players, on some golf courses, maybe so.</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table>Recently numerous ideas and initiatives have been presented to make the game more "user friendly". <a href="http://www.pga.com/news/pga/tee-it-forward" target="_blank">Tee it Forward</a>, encouraged players to move forward for less arduous, quicker and more enjoyable game. &nbsp;Recently <a href="http://golfweek.com/news/2014/aug/27/golf-channel-relaxed-rules-of-golf-martin-kaufmann/" target="_blank">"The Relaxed Rules of Golf"</a> have been introduced making the game substantially less draconian and much more enjoyable for amateur players. &nbsp; Along the same lines, it seems that the strict dress codes that once ruled the majority of fairways, greens and clubhouses are also giving way to something more ... casual.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"></div>At <a href="http://candlewoodvalleygolf.com/" target="_blank">Candlewood Valley Country Club</a> one recent weekend I noticed several players wearing outfits that would have raised eyebrows a few years ago. &nbsp;Both cargo shorts and denim jeans were widely represented and there was no sign of a dress code enforcer anywhere. &nbsp;Young players were plentiful and despite their laid back attire behaved with... admirable decorum.<br /><br />Stalwart traditionalists might balk, and exclusive country clubs will certainly maintain a more rigid set of rules, but on this Autumnal afternoon, the more relaxed dress code seemed just about right.<br /><br />Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-46582406789651232722014-10-24T01:17:00.001-04:002014-10-24T01:19:53.314-04:00Win a "Tee To Table" Trip to a Fabulous Gourmet Golf Event<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FolummZhZak/VEm5_ZuTWMI/AAAAAAAAyNI/AHAvUYH670k/s1600/T2T_Contest_Florida.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FolummZhZak/VEm5_ZuTWMI/AAAAAAAAyNI/AHAvUYH670k/s1600/T2T_Contest_Florida.png" height="328" width="640" /></a></div><br />Deanna Alfredo, whose terrific website <a href="http://www.teetotablebydeannaalfredo.com/" target="_blank">Tee to Table</a>, focuses on golf, food and travel is offering readers a unique and exciting opportunity to enjoy a very special golf lifestyle experience... an experience that involves a trip to Florida for an exciting celebrity golf event!&nbsp; It's easy to enter, but here's the thing: the deadline is tomorrow at midnight... so get on it. And good luck!<br /><br />All info plus entry form <a href="http://www.teetotablebydeannaalfredo.com/contest/" target="_blank">can be found at Tee to Table.</a><br /><br />Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2640652526116928447.post-34400945338654977362014-10-09T01:14:00.000-04:002014-10-13T13:17:40.213-04:00Top 10 Golf Cakes - Creative Confections That Hit the Sweet Spot <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-USMMwe-bul4/VDgZc-iZ3UI/AAAAAAAAxJ4/cZ1S_g2k8gc/s1600/Beautiful%2BGolf%2BBirthday%2BCake%2B(1)%2B(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-USMMwe-bul4/VDgZc-iZ3UI/AAAAAAAAxJ4/cZ1S_g2k8gc/s1600/Beautiful%2BGolf%2BBirthday%2BCake%2B(1)%2B(1).jpg" height="610" width="640"></a></div><i><b><span style="color: #666666;">Today is <a href="https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/cake-decorating-day/" target="_blank">National Cake Decorating Day</a>! It really is. </span></b></i><br><i><b><span style="color: #666666;"><br></span></b></i><b><span style="color: #666666;"><i>I first published a version of this story a while back... before I knew such a day existed... but it does, and it&#39;s today and who doesn&#39;t love cakes? So this just seemed like a perfect time to revisit it. Enjoy.</i> </span></b><br><br>There was a time... not long ago... when cakes conformed to certain specific standards; a wedding cake would generally be tiered and white, while a birthday cake was expected to be layered... and laden with candles. <br><br>Thanks to several celebrity bakers and a few reality cooking shows, stunning, over-the-top cake design has become standard... no matter <i>what</i> the occasion. <br><br>As for inspiration... it can come from anywhere. Or so it seems. An image search for &quot;cakes&quot; yields a substantial selection of truly exquisite creations... and a mind-boggling multitude of hideous/hilarious &quot;cake mistakes&quot;<br><br>With so much interest in the sugar arts, <i>cake contests</i> have become popular fundraisers, and a couple of years ago I competed in one myself. It was a benefit the <a href="http://www.danburymuseum.org/danburymuseum/Home.html">Danbury Museum &amp; Historical Society</a>, an organization that&#39;s dear to my heart because of its commitment to the preservation of history... specifically the history of our centuries-old town: Danbury, CT.<br><br>The theme of the contest that year was &quot;Bake What You Love&quot;, so I naturally thought of golf... and when I started looking around for ideas I found plenty. As in hundreds. Some were sublime, others were... <i>interesting</i>... and some left me wanting to swear off cake... and golf... for the rest of my life. Anyway I ended up creating mine in honor of the US Open (a tournament I love) which was soon to take place at Medina. It was the first three tier cake I&#39;d ever made and though it wasn&#39;t perfect, I loved way it came out and the taste was sublime. <a href="http://thegolfgirl.blogspot.com/2013/02/a-golf-inspired-cake.html" target="_blank">Check it out here</a>.<br><br>Then last spring I decided to make a golf birthday cake for my husband. He loves the game and it rarely loves him back, I figured this might add some sweetness to his obsession and I think it did. Sort of. That&#39;s my a photo of the cake above, taken before Nick attempted to blow out the candles and after the flag caught on fire and nearly burned down Dad&#39;s house. <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/photos/+PatriciaHannigan/albums/6004518375129754913?sort=1" target="_blank">More photos here</a>.<br><br>Finally check the golf cakes on my Top 10 list <a href="http://thegolfgirl.blogspot.com/2013/01/Top-10-golf-cakes.html#more">HERE</a>.<br><br><br><a href="http://thegolfgirl.blogspot.com/2013/01/Top-10-golf-cakes.html#more">READ MORE &gt;&gt;&gt;</a>Patricia Hanniganhttps://plus.google.com/100802719534468276052noreply@blogger.com7